How it Started

Idea

Amid the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic’s initial wave, two airway management experts identified a critical, unaddressed need in the medical field. Confronted with the severe risks and complexities in intubation procedures during this global crisis, they saw a unique opportunity for bold innovation.

Design

To revolutionize airway management and improve patient safety, the co-founders of IVOSMedical applied their combined 20+ years of anesthesiology expertise, resulting in the creation of a transformative intubation tool. Their journey—shaped by thousands of intubations and deep, practical knowledge—has culminated in the BOSS G4™, a pioneering device designed to redefine intubation practices.

Development

Working in the collaborative environment of UC Irvine Medical Center and the Beall Applied Innovation Incubator, the co-founders meticulously developed their patent-pending device. They drew upon vast expertise within the Departments of Emergency Medicine and Anesthesiology, ensuring the device was not only innovative but deeply rooted in practical application.

Pre-seed Funding

A major milestone came when the team received the UCI Beall Applied Innovation Startup Grant, which provided critical funding and validation. This pre-seed funding allowed them to further develop the BOSS G4™, refining its design to meet the high standards required in medical settings.

Obstructed Vision in Soiled Airways

0-11 sec:

The initial insertion of the video laryngoscope resulted in obstruction of the camera view due to fluids in the oral cavity. The device was removed from the mouth, and the lens was manually cleaned to restore the camera to baseline functionality before being reinserted.

12-21 sec:

Once the video laryngoscope was reinserted into the oral cavity, critical time had already been lost, as the simulated patient remained apneic and gastric fluids continued to enter the lungs.

22-30 sec:

A Cormack-Lehane grade 1 view was achieved after aggressive suctioning with a Yankauer suction catheter. This provided clear visualization for the healthcare provider to insert the endotracheal tube using indirect visualization.

Obstructed Vision in Soiled Airways

0-13 sec:

The video laryngoscope is equipped with the IVOS BOSS G4™ system. The device integrates gas flow into the handle to continuously provide a clear camera window throughout the entire intubation process, without requiring removal of the device from the patient’s mouth.

14-27 sec:

The G4’s integrated suction channel removes oral cavity fluids and reduces the potential for aspirate to enter the lungs. Maintaining a clear view of the airway in an emergency setting can increase first-pass success, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality in patients.

28-37 sec:

The patient remains apneic for only a minimal amount of time while the healthcare provider inserts the endotracheal tube into the trachea and secures the airway for lifesaving ventilation.